San Diego Zoo Parking in 2026

The short answer: parking at the San Diego Zoo is no longer free. Since January 5, 2026, the main lot charges $16 per car per day, motorcycles included, and $44 for oversized vehicles such as RVs. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance members park free once they register their vehicle. (Checked in October 2026.)

Older guides, and a lot of online answers, still say the zoo lot is free. That changed when the City of San Diego brought in paid parking across Balboa Park.

How to pay

ACE Parking runs the lot, and there are four ways to pay:

1. Text “1671” to (619) 901-0402.
2. Scan the QR code on the signs in the lot.
3. Use one of the self-service kiosks in the lot and at the main entrance plaza.
4. Pay cash at any zoo ticket booth.

The text and QR options add a $0.55 processing fee. Each asks for your phone number, licence plate and state.

What if you don’t pay?

Every vehicle in the lot has to pay, whatever its type. ACE Parking handles enforcement, and disputes go through its appeal form. Cars in the loading zones don’t pay, as long as they stay there only while dropping off or picking up passengers.

The free shuttle on busy days

On selected days the zoo runs a complimentary shuttle from the Inspiration Point lot to the main entrance, using the bus lane on Park Boulevard to beat the traffic. It runs from 11 a.m. until an hour after closing. Parking fees may apply at Inspiration Point, and members’ free parking does not cover that lot. There is more paid parking around Balboa Park as well.

Other ways to get there

• Rideshare or taxi. Ask for drop-off at the zoo entrance loading zone, 2920 Zoo Drive.
• Public transport. San Diego’s MTS buses serve Balboa Park; check the MTS trip planner for the route from where you are staying.
• On foot. From hotels in Bankers Hill, Hillcrest or North Park, walking through Balboa Park is a pleasant way in.

Arrive early, ticket in hand

The lot fills on weekends, school holidays and in October, when children get in free. The best plan is to arrive near the 9 a.m. opening with your ticket already on your phone, so you go from the car straight to the turnstiles. The zoo’s own 1-Day Pass costs $78 per adult, and booked here it can be cancelled up to 24 hours before. (Price checked in October 2026.)

Going to the Safari Park in Escondido as well? Its parking is separate and costs more: $20 per car. Our Safari Park tickets page has the details, and the hours guide covers when to arrive.